Alumni Profiles – Alumni

Rita Burke ’73 Passes the Baton with a Legacy Gift

ludingtont — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 17:25:48 +0000

It was an experience she had as a teenager that inspired Rita Burke ’73 to pursue a career as a music teacher for special needs children. “My church’s youth group organized a visit to a special education school,” she recalls. “I brought my portable record player and some records. I saw the positive impact the music had on the children. It made a profound impression on me.”

Affordability and scholarship support brought Rita to Montclair. “I received an award from an association of World War II veterans that my father belonged to,” she says. “I received additional support from the University through a program that rewarded students preparing for careers in teaching.”

After completing her degree, she returned to her hometown to join the school district’s special education team as a music teacher. During Rita’s successful 35-year career, she was named Teacher of the Year by the State of New Jersey.

“Montclair provided me with an excellent foundational college education,” she says. “I am truly grateful for my professors who actively listened and inspired me to develop various ways to teach music to all students.”

When considering the philanthropic aspects of her estate plans, Rita thought of Montclair. “I had been putting off updating my will,” she says. “When I learned that I could use my estate to set up a scholarship for students majoring in music education, however, I got excited about the possibilities. It was a great feeling.”

“People tend to look at estate planning as the end of things,” she adds. “But when you establish a scholarship at Montclair, you are carrying your legacy forward, passing the baton to new generations.”

Giving Back is Second Nature to Entrepreneur Edwin Feliciano ’82

ludingtont — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 17:14:20 +0000

Edwin Feliciano ’82 got his first business lessons at his father’s side. “My dad had a little variety storefront in Passaic,” he reminisces. “When I was five or six years old, he would take me to Mulberry Street in New York to purchase items for the store. My job was to keep quiet and listen while he negotiated with his suppliers.”��

The elder Feliciano was committed to preparing his son for the real world. “We didn’t have a lot of money, but somehow he managed to buy a cold water flat in Passaic,” Feliciano says of his father. “It had seven or eight units, and he had to do most of the upkeep. One day, he told me that it was my lucky day – that I would go in alone to collect the rent. I was only 13, but he wanted to be sure that I could take care of things if something ever happened to him.”��

Feliciano’s parents also taught him the importance of giving back to the community. “Both of my parents volunteered at our church,” he says. “Dad was always ready to help someone find a job when they needed it. My mom taught Sunday school. We were always encouraged to invite friends over for Sunday dinner – some days I think she fed half the neighborhood! They taught me how to work hard and how to give generously.”

A wrestling scholarship at West Chester University sent Feliciano out of state for college, but not for long. “I wanted to be close to home,” he says. He took a break from school and six months later he enrolled at Montclair, leaning into full-time study alongside full-time work.��

“Montclair was so different then,” he recalls. “There were maybe 400 students in the entire business program. My classes always seemed to be on the top floor of Partridge Hall. When the elevator wasn’t working – which was often – it was a challenge to get to class on time.”

In 1982, he graduated with a B.S. in Business Administration.

Feliciano tried corporate life, with jobs at companies like Goya Foods and Richter Brothers, Inc., but he wasn’t cut out to work for others. By the time he was 23 Feliciano had purchased his first investment property and earned licenses to sell, appraise, and broker real estate. By 30, he was married to the love of his life, Mimi. The pair began working on a shared vision of the future. “Mimi is wonderful,” he says. “We balance each other out. We make a good team. Together we started building something of our own.”

In 2001, the couple took over the Lincoln Park Healthcare Center, a family-owned company, and built it into an industry frontrunner in short-term rehabilitation care. “There was definitely a learning curve,” he says. They introduced the JDT Medical Rehabilitation Center and Villa, a new model in health care facility design, which not only transformed short-term rehabilitation care in New Jersey but also set a new national standard of excellence. In 2012, they sold JDT and established FEM Real Estate LLC, which owns, manages and invests in commercial real estate throughout the United States.

While expanding on his parents’ lessons in business, the Felicianos also expanded on his family’s tradition of generosity – which has long included support for Montclair. In 2012, the couple established the Feliciano Center for Entrepreneurship at ��Ʒ��˸�� University. Their philanthropy was recognized twice that year, at the Chilton Medical Center Foundation Gala and with the University’s Carpe Diem Award. In 2015 the ribbon was cut on the new School of Business building. The School was officially renamed in their honor.��

They are generous with their time as well, with Mimi serving as a member of the Feliciano School of Business Advisory Board and Edwin sharing his wisdom as a guest lecturer. “I teach students about the realities of owning a business,” he says.��

Feliciano has also been busy merging his two passions: education and faith. He has already seen to the building of three facilities in Guatemala, including a church in the western side of the country that includes 12 classrooms as well as a mezzanine that seats 1,000, another church on the outskirts of the jungle to the east, and a community and medical center. “I provide the funding and the residents provide the craftsmanship,” he says.��

With those projects well underway, he is turning his attention to education there. “Guatemalan schools generally stop at the sixth grade,” he explains. “I want to change that. My goal, my vision, is to provide local access to a Montclair education.”��

When Feliciano is speaking with students, he often refers to what he calls the “Ten Essential Vitamins of Life.” They are his tips to attaining joy and, as you might imagine, hard work and giving back are high on the list. “Be present, get involved, practice contentment,” he says. “And keep moving forward.”

He also encourages students – and fellow alumni – to support their alma mater. “Don’t forget where you came from once you become successful,” he advises. “Montclair gave us an outstanding education and helped us create a solid foundation for our careers, and for our lives. It is important to give back to support the next generation. So many of our students rely on financial aid. Our contributions make a real difference in their lives.”

A Fast Track to Success

ludingtont — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:26:53 +0000

Chloe Swift ’22 knew early on – by her sophomore year in high school! – that she wanted a career in television and journalism. And she wasted no time pursuing her goal.

“I was in the studio production and broadcasting program at Cumberland County Technical Education Center,” Swift explains. “From the time I started high school I was exposed to television, content creation, scripting and anchoring.”

She also participated in the school’s Early College High School program, which allowed her to complete an associate degree alongside a high school diploma. She was especially eager to find a college that had a strong television program, and that would accept the degree credits she had already worked so hard to earn.

“Montclair checked every box,” she says.

Swift transferred her entire degree, which left only two years to complete her bachelor’s. “The first year was remote due to the pandemic,” she says. “In my final year I was able to live on campus, in the Heights. I really enjoyed the experience.”

Building Skills and Community at Montclair

Even though Swift began college with a foundational knowledge of television production, she found that her Montclair classes pushed her to a higher level of expertise and excellence. “The expectations were high,” she says of her professors. “They treated us like professionals, which helped me build the confidence I would need going into the industry at such a young age. They saw my potential and encouraged me to embrace it.”

Swift was keeping pace with her classmates, but she was keenly aware of the age gap. “The other students were three and four years older than me,” she says. “The age difference made it hard to socialize.”

Joining Sigma Delta Phi helped. “The sorority made it easier to meet people my own age,” Swift says. “I’m still in touch with several of my sisters.”

The Honors Program, now called the John Martinson Honors EDGE Program, further strengthened her Montclair education. “I was very intentional in applying to this program, which included a framework of seminar-based interdisciplinary courses,” she points out. “I wanted to be in an advanced learning setting with like-minded students.”

Internships provided additional preparation for professional roles. She worked as a production assistant for Montclair Film and provided content for the launch of , Montclair’s streaming service.

Swift’s brother Parker, who graduated from Montclair in 2024, was paying close attention to his sister’s progress. “Because Chloe was already a student, I could get a firsthand look at the program,” he says. “I realized pretty quickly that Montclair’s facilities stand out from the rest. I also saw how welcoming the professors are. On top of that, seeing Chloe succeed while freelancing in the Montclair area showed me how well the program prepares students for real-world opportunities. Her confidence and skills made it clear that Montclair would be the right place for me to continue my journey.”

From Freelance Work to National Broadcast Production

After completing her degree in Television Production, Swift built experience through a variety of freelance assignments with clients including the Episcopal Church of St. James in Montclair and Through The Lens Studios. Still, she wanted to be part of an ongoing team.

One of her Montclair professors reached out to her with an associate video producer opportunity at the Daily Racing Form, the news and data source for thoroughbred horse racing enthusiasts.

Fun fact: Swift’s parents fell in love at Saratoga Race Course, poring over the Daily Racing Form. “My dad used to take me to the races in Atlantic City when I was little,” she says. “You can imagine how excited they were when I told them I was going to work there!”

“It was an extremely fun job,” she continues. “I got to travel around the country for many of the big races – the Breeders’ Cup, Belmont, Preakness. It was a great experience.”

When she moved to Philadelphia, however, commuting to New York City was not sustainable. Once again, one of her Montclair contacts came through with a recommendation. This time, it would be for an associate producer role with the Caucus Educational Corporation (CEC), the nonprofit multimedia production company led by Steve Adubato, PhD, who graduated from Montclair in 1980.

Not too long after, Swift was named senior producer for One-on One with Steve Adubato, the CEC’s nightly interview program. “I get to meet so many fascinating people,” she says. “Authors, actors, advocates, and athletes – people who are making a difference in New Jersey’s communities. It is very inspiring.”

In 2025, Swift was able to return to Montclair in a professional capacity to produce a two-part program of Think Tank with Steve Adubato. “In the specials, Steve and President Koppell talked about the future of broadcasting, the value of a college education, campus safety and the role of universities in society,” she says. “It was a great program, and the audience was fantastic.”

Giving Back Through Education and Mentorship

Swift has begun her own journey as a change-maker as a member of the Cumberland County Technical Education Center Foundation board. “Education is important to me,” she says. “Cumberland is the poorest county in New Jersey; opportunities are not always accessible. As scholarship chair I organize and help distribute awards that change the trajectory of students’ lives. I hope to continue cultivating education in the future, perhaps as a professor or mentor.”

She also looks forward to staying connected to her alma mater. “Parker and I are really lucky to be Montclair grads,” Swift adds. “I mean, just look at the value you get – and when you put in the work, you get even more. I encourage students to talk to every single one of their professors. Reach out to the career and internship professionals on campus. And don’t forget to cultivate relationships with the community around you.”

Marking a Full-Circle Moment

stewartj — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:41:27 +0000

College of Communication and Media (CCOM) alumnus Jonathan Edmond (‘22) reached a major professional milestone on December 14, calling his first NBA game, a Brooklyn Nets-Milwaukee Bucks matchup in New York on��, marking a full-circle moment in a career shaped by hands-on learning, mentorship and persistence.

Building a Career in Sports Content and Storytelling

Edmond serves as senior coordinator of content management for��, working across teams including the Brooklyn Nets, New York Liberty and Long Island Nets. Based in one of the world’s largest sports markets, his role allows him to blend storytelling, production and on-air experience at the professional level.

While Edmond’s day-to-day role on the content team does not require him to be on air, the opportunity to call a Nets game grew out of years of broadcasting experience and relationship-building within the organization and at Montclair.

Professional Growth Through Mentorship

“Chris Carrino has been a great mentor to me and has followed my work and growth,” said Edmond of the longtime Nets radio play-by-play announcer. “He asked me to join the Nets radio broadcasts to sit in for Tim Capstraw while Tim handled color commentary on television.”

Since joining Brooklyn Sports and Entertainment, Edmond has been open about his goal of becoming a broadcaster and has consistently sought feedback and guidance from mentors within the Nets organization, including Carrino, Capstraw, Ian Eagle and Noah Eagle.

“Jonathan is a terrific young man and very well liked amongst his co-workers. Everyone wants to help him get where he wants to be in his career,” said Carrino, who is also a��play-by-play announcer for Compass Media Networks and Westwood One.��“He’s an excellent broadcaster and will get better with experience. His diligence in his preparation stands out. I’m glad we could give him this opportunity.”

“Jon is a true student of broadcasting, he’s singularly focused on polishing his skills and developing his craft,” said Ian Eagle, lead play-by-play announcer for the Brooklyn Nets and a national broadcaster for CBS Sports and TNT.��“I know the preparation will always be first rate because of the pride he takes in his job. He’s an absolute pro and the opportunities he’s getting have been earned based on his tireless work ethic and how he treats others. Sky’s the limit!”

Outside of his full-time role as a media manager, Edmond continues to pursue freelance broadcasting opportunities, and credits the ongoing support and feedback from his mentors as instrumental in earning on-air opportunities.

CCOM as the Launchpad

A Union, NJ native, Edmond began his sports media journey as a transfer student and quickly became deeply involved in��Ի��.

“Being part of Red Hawk Sports Network taught me how to edit, how to be on camera, how to interview and how to truly be a broadcaster. With The Montclarion, I learned how to write and developed patience. All of that transitioned into the person I am today.”

One of Edmond’s most memorable student experiences came during RHSN’s first live football broadcast on Montclair’s streaming network��. While unexpected technical challenges kept him from calling a game that day, watching his peers successfully bring the live show to air left a lasting impression.

“Seeing everyone come together and nail that broadcast showed me what preparation and teamwork really looks like.”

Those lessons proved critical as Edmond transitioned into high-pressure professional environments, including working major events such as the NBA Draft and Heisman Trophy.

Edmond, credits the CCOM faculty and staff for instilling the importance of preparation and confidence when opportunity presents itself.

“When that opportunity comes, you better be ready. That’s something CCOM really taught me. But I felt like I was dreaming,” Edmond said of the Dec. 14 game. “I was super nervous in the beginning, but I locked in and trusted myself because I’ve been working toward this moment. I had a lot of fun and learned so much, and I’ll continue to keep climbing.”

“I’m extremely proud of Jon,” said��Professor Kelly Whiteside, who led the Sports Communication program and taught several classes while Edmond was a student. “From the day he arrived as a transfer student until the day he graduated, he never stopped learning and never stopped asking questions. He worked so hard on his craft by calling games and being part of our live productions. He is an inspiration to our students, who can look at someone like him and think to themselves, ‘I can do this, too.’”

Edmond encourages current and prospective students to take full advantage of Montclair’s facilities, experiential learning opportunities and student media organizations.

“Have patience and enjoy the journey, Montclair prepared me for everything I’m facing in this profession.”

Wooten Family Traditions

stewartj — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:21:16 +0000

Sheila Wooten ’85 and her family – husband Vincent ’86 and daughters Leila ’16 and Nadia ’22 – give new meaning to the term, “Bloomfield College of ��Ʒ��˸�� University family.”

Not only do all four of the Wootens sport Bloomfield College degrees, Sheila is Deputy Director of Athletics and Recreation on Montclair’s campus while also serving as Director of Athletics at Bloomfield College, and Nadia is a Residential Communication Specialist on Montclair’s Residence Life team.

As a student, Sheila made her mark as one of the College’s premier athletes in school history, excelling as a three-sport athlete in basketball, softball and volleyball. A two-time All-American, she was also the first Bloomfield College female athlete to score 1,000 career points and grab 1,000 career rebounds. In 1990, she was inducted into the Bloomfield College Athletics Hall of Fame.

Sheila, who completed her degree in accounting, and Vincent, a business major, married and started a family. She stayed on at Bloomfield to coach, and Vincent launched a successful career in the insurance industry.

By 1998, Sheila was guiding the Bloomfield College Women’s Volleyball team to their best season ever and to a Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) Tournament championship. That year, she was appointed Director of Athletics. During her tenure in Bloomfield athletics, she earned CACC Coach of the Year honors three times and was twice named CACC Athletic Director of the Year.

Sheila was also instrumental in Bloomfield College’s bid for NCAA membership, securing provisional membership as an NCAA Division II institution in 1998 and full NCAA membership – with 11 competitive CACC and Division II sports – in 2002. Always in tune with the times, Sheila introduced esports to the campus. In 2020, she was named Dean of Students.

When Bloomfield College became part of Montclair, Sheila took on the dual role of Deputy Director of Athletics and Recreation on Montclair’s campus while also serving as Director of Athletics for Bloomfield College.

Vincent’s career progressed quickly as well, through roles as a Senior Casualty officer for MDA Corporation, a Casualty Specialist for Progressive Insurance Company, a Senior Bodily Injury Adjustor for JBA and Associates and a Casualty Claims Examiner III for Avis Budget Group.

Sheila’s career meant that the family spent a lot of time on the Bloomfield College campus and collected a lot of fond memories.

“We grew up on campus,” Leila recalls. “I especially remember the barbecues in the fall and spring – so many people came out for them! It was a lot of fun. And the graduation processions down Liberty Street were always beautiful.”

Nadia agrees. “Being at Bloomfield College felt like being surrounded by family,” she says.

Leila originally chose Bloomfield’s nursing program when it was time for college. She soon found her true talent in mathematics, however, while tutoring her teammates on the Women’s Volleyball team. In addition, she was selected for the College’s prestigious McNair Scholars program, which prioritizes academic rigor and research, and served as a resident advisor. Today, she is bringing her passion for mathematics to the students at Hoboken High School, and to Bloomfield College undergraduates working their way through college algebra.

“Being a resident advisor is a lot – and it was great preparation for teaching,” Leila says. “I had to manage a staff, plan and lead coaching sessions with incoming students, and coordinate a lot of administrative details. Public speaking classes and the McNair Scholars program helped me hone my research and presentation skills, which also makes me a stronger teacher.”

Nadia, on the other hand, did not plan on a Bloomfield College degree. In fact, she was studying education and playing basketball at American International College in Massachusetts when the pandemic hit. She returned home and enrolled at Bloomfield to complete her degree, switching her major to psychology in the process. In her current role as a Residential Communication Specialist, Nadia keeps Montclair students informed about and engaged in University life.

“Bloomfield College turned out to be the best experience,” Nadia says. “I got so much more from learning in smaller classrooms. I was excited to go to class! I’m still in touch with some of my professors.”

When Nadia and Leila became Bloomfield undergraduates, mother and daughters decided that they wouldn’t advertise the family relationship. “That didn’t last long though,” Sheila says with a laugh. “They were always in the gym and at games, and pretty soon they were coming by the office pretty often to say hello.”

When asked about what had changed about a Bloomfield College education over the course of 30-plus years, the Wootens instead emphasized what remained the same: a strong sense of community.

“The relationships you form in college are important,” says Vincent, who is currently serving as a mechanical inspector for NJ Transit. “Studying and interacting with such a diverse group of people teaches you a lot about how to communicate going forward.”

Sheila points to the lifelong colleagues and friends she has gathered over the years. “I started at the bottom and worked my way up,” she says. “Those relationships gave me a lot of support as my career grew.”

“You always knew that the faculty and staff cared,” Nadia adds. “Everyone deserves the college experience that Leila and I had at Bloomfield.”

In 2025, Sheila was inducted into the CACC Hall of Fame, honoring her many achievements and contributions to college athletics. But if you think that is her proudest moment as a higher education athletics professional, you would be wrong.

“Watching my children graduate from my alma mater was really special,” she says, noting that she was able to present Nadia with her degree. “What could top that?”

The Single Mom Overcomes Adversity and Rises to the Graduation Stage

bulana — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 15:56:30 +0000

When Cookie Howard walked across the Prudential Center stage at ��Ʒ��˸�� University’s Winter 2026 Commencement, the moment marked far more than the completion of a degree. It represented decades of perseverance, reinvention and faith – through foster care, single motherhood, entrepreneurship, homelessness and disability.

A GED earner, Howard received her Bachelor of Arts in Family Science and Human Development during the College for Community Health portion of the ceremony. Her journey embodies the spirit of Montclair’s graduates and mission: students who broaden access to opportunity and uplift others along the way.

A Mother’s Dream Becomes a National Brand

Howard became a single mother at 16. Raised in Harlem in the foster care system, she wanted a different future for her young son Cory Nieves, so the two moved to Englewood, New Jersey, navigating daily life by bus. When 5-year-old Cory wished for a car to help them get around, he came up with an idea – selling hot chocolate and then cookies.

Mr. Cory’s Cookies began at home. What followed was extraordinary. The mother-and-son business gained national attention, appearing in local, regional and national media, including and appearances on and the reality TV show . At its height, the company, which resulted in Howard’s Cookie moniker, reportedly surpassed $1 million in sales.

And then it all crumbled.

Loss, Homelessness and Starting Again

The COVID-19 pandemic halted sales. The business unraveled. Howard and her son lost their home and eventually moved into a shelter.

“I made it to the top and fell back down,” Howard says. “That’s a part of being an entrepreneur; it’s part of being human. I just pray that with the grace of God things will get better.”

Despite the ups and downs, Howard refused to give up – on herself or on education.

Returning to School Against the Odds

While still operating Mr. Cory’s Cookies and working odd jobs, Howard, 37, enrolled at Montclair as a non-traditional student, navigating financial instability, a documented learning disability and the daily realities of survival. There were moments when continuing felt impossible, particularly when her car – the 2015 Ford Escape gifted to her on Ellen – broke down and she again faced eviction and homelessness.

“These were times when everything felt dark, and I honestly didn’t see a way out,” she says. “But by God’s grace, I was able to keep my apartment. I held on to the little bit of light I had left, and somehow, it shined right through.”

Melissa Pecora, Howard’s EOF counselor and academic advisor, watched that perseverance firsthand. “Cookie has overcome countless challenges with remarkable resilience and determination. Despite the obstacles she’s faced, she continues to rise above them and has shown that challenges can become opportunities for future success,” she says. “I have watched her excel academically while achieving significant personal milestones.”

“Cookie exemplifies a unique balance of grit, creativity and unrelenting drive. She is an inspiration to all scholars, particularly those adult learners who may be reluctant to enroll in college.” ~ Daniel Jean, Associate Provost for Educational Opportunity and Success Programs

Three Buses, No Internet, No Excuses

Unable to afford the car repairs or an internet connection, she left home three hours early, taking three buses to campus to make her 9 a.m. class. Using the internet on campus, Howard routinely stayed late into the evening, juggling class assignments and her internship and leadership of the Adult Student Advocacy Program (ASAP).

From her warmth and humor, few would know her struggles, as her light also illuminated others.

“I’ve had students come to the office asking for her or mentioning how much she helped them,” says Meghan Hearns, director of the Disability Resource Center, where Howard is a constant presence.

Advocacy as a Calling

Howard’s impact at Montclair extends far beyond the classroom. She became a mentor and presenter for students connected to the Disability Resource Center, spoke at the Disability Awareness Month flag-raising ceremony, and earned the prestigious Charlotte W. Newcombe Scholarship for Students with Disabilities.

Her most lasting contribution, however, is the Adult Student Advocacy Program – a support network she founded to help non-traditional students navigate school while balancing work, family and life challenges.

“Adult students have a lot of stuff that’s going on in our lives,” Howard says. “We sometimes feel like no one cares, but we have to open our mouths and say, ‘Hey, I need help.’ People want to help you.”

A Tribe That Wouldn’t Let Her Quit

Despite the hardship, Howard persisted with the help of the people around her.

“It took a tribe of people to get involved and say, ‘We believe in you,’” she says. “That gave me the confidence to continue.”

Support came from people on and off campus. Howard credits and is grateful for the many who helped her, including Associate Vice President and Dean of Students Margaree Coleman-Carter, whom she credits for making her internship possible, Office of Student Belonging Assistant Dean Jonnine DeLoatch, and a host of professors, advisors and even University Police – some of whom, she says, bought her meals, pitched in for car repairs or other needs. She also credits her church family at Mount Olive Baptist Church in Hackensack, some of whom were at Commencement, for helping her get to the graduation stage.

“They just didn’t give up on me,” Howard says. “I kept holding on, and I’m happy I did.”

Academic Advisor Natalia Pizarro-Valencia credits Howard’s “hard work, perseverance and commitment to learning” to accomplish her goal. “It’s been a truly humbling experience to support Cookie throughout her academic journey. Witnessing her effort, growth and dedication has been both inspiring and rewarding.”

Looking Ahead, Giving Back

Howard’s plans to continue her post-graduate studies. She’s considering attending Drew University, where she’s been accepted. Her goals include community activism, philanthropy and humanitarian work – “pastoral work without the collar,” as she puts it.

“I want to work with single mothers and at-risk kids,” she says. “That’s why I’m going for my Master of Divinity.”
As she crossed the stage on January 13, Howard’s journey affirmed that with resilience – and the right support – students at ��Ʒ��˸�� University can transform adversity into achievement.

Original story by Sylvia A. Martinez Photography by University Photographer Mike Peters. This story is part of a series celebrating ��Ʒ��˸�� University’s graduates – students who embody the University’s mission to broaden access to exceptional learning opportunities and contribute to the common good.

How Bloomfield Graduate Nicole Yator ’26 Found Her Confidence

bulana — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 15:54:10 +0000

Born and raised in the Philippines, Nicole Yator immigrated to the United States at just thirteen years old. By the time she arrived at Bloomfield College of ��Ʒ��˸�� University as a freshman, she was academically strong – but quiet and reserved.

During her first year, Yator’s algebra professor noticed her intellect and recommended her for a tutoring position. It was an opportunity she had earned, but one she quietly turned down.

“I thought I was too shy,” she admits. “I didn’t think I could do it.”

Four years later, that same student is graduating as a campus leader and mentor, deeply involved in student life and passionate about giving back to the community that helped her grow. Getting there, however, took time, support, and a willingness to step outside her comfort zone.

Lifted by the Bloomfield Community

From the very beginning, Yator found support through Bloomfield’s (SSS) and “I’m super grateful for TRIO and EOF,” she says. “They’ve been there for me since the beginning of my college career.”

Choosing to live on campus helped her immerse herself in college life, but it also made college more expensive than expected. Even after scholarships, financial aid, and grants, there was still a financial gap. That’s where EOF stepped in – helping cover remaining costs and providing mentorship along the way.

“EOF and TRIO always made sure my bill was at zero,” Yator says. “That support meant everything. It allowed me to focus on school instead of constantly worrying.”

The Power of Mentorship

As Yator progressed in her Biology major, she leaned on peer mentors who became both guides and role models. Watching them succeed and support others sparked a realization.

It reminded her of the tutoring position she had declined as a freshman. “Seeing other people doing the thing I was most afraid of made me think, maybe I can do this too,” she says.

Quietly, she began hoping she’d get another chance. She knew tutors had to be recommended and approved by a professor – but this time, she felt more prepared.

A Second Chance to Say Yes

In 2024, a second chance came when another mentor recommended her for a position and this time, Yator accepted – even though the nerves were still there.

“But I had this realization: the students coming to me for help were doing the same thing I do with my mentors.”

That shift changed everything. “I used to hate asking for help. That was my toxic trait,” she says with a laugh. “Once I understood that asking questions is part of learning, it broke me out of my shell.”

Growing — and Giving Back — as a Campus Leader

Yator’s confidence continued to grow, and so did her involvement on campus. In addition to serving as a Biology Tutor, she became a Peer Coach and Lab Assistant, worked as a Social Media Intern for CAACE, and earned her Mental Health First Aid USA Certification.

She also found a leadership home in Team Infinite, a student organization focused on helping students – especially commuters – feel comfortable getting involved on campus. Yator served as Vice President for two years before becoming President during her senior year. Under her leadership, Team Infinite emphasized accessibility, flexibility, and inclusion. In 2024, the club was recognized as Club of the Year.

Looking Forward

Yator graduated with a degree in Biology and plans to continue her education in healthcare. Whether she becomes a pharmacist or a doctor, her goal is clear.

“After college, I want to continue my career and education in healthcare and science to share my knowledge,” she says.

At graduation, her parents and sister were there to cheer her on – with extended family in the Philippines celebrating from across the world.

Advice for New Students

Yator’s advice for incoming students is simple, but powerful: “Be friends with people, and don’t gatekeep resources. If you know something that can help someone else, share it.”

She practiced what she preaches – even recommending friends for TRIO and EOF. “Community makes such a difference,” she says. “No one should feel like they have to figure everything out alone.”

Original story by Jayda Brown. Photography by University Photographer Mike Peters. This story is part of a series celebrating ��Ʒ��˸�� University’s graduates – students who embody the University’s mission to broaden access to exceptional learning opportunities and contribute to the common good.

From First-Generation College Graduate to Family Legacy

bulana — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 17:31:34 +0000

At first glance, the education and career paths traveled by Fran Sabaliauskas ’70 and her daughter, Stephanie Sabaliauskas ’05 ’11 MA, are as different as night and day. Fran studied Business Education and went on to teach business at the high school level for 42 years. Stephanie studied Commercial Recreation and Tourism and earned a master’s in Sports Administration. She has spent most of her career at Montclair, currently serving as the University’s manager of Game Operations.

Scratch the surface, however, and you will find more similarities than you might guess in their trajectories – and in their Montclair experience.��

“I knew I wanted to go to college,” Fran tells us. “I started out as a Spanish major, but I found I didn’t want to continue in that direction. I had already taken a few business courses in high school, so I thought I might switch to Business Education.”

Still concerned about her decision, Fran attended a camping trip organized by her newly chosen academic department. “I wasn’t even sure who I was supposed to share a cabin with,” she recalls with a laugh. “I ended up canoeing on a lake with the head of the department, who helped me with my direction in life. The professors were inspiring and supportive especially during challenging times – they kept you on task and encouraged you to persist. As a result, I finished my degree in three and a half years and became the first in my family to graduate from college.”

After living on campus for a year in Chapin Hall, Fran moved into off-campus housing. The Student Center became a focal point of her days at the University. “The campus was so much smaller then,” she says. “We walked a dirt road to get to the local Dairy Queen!”

During her time in Chapin, Fran formed a close circle of friends and became actively involved on campus through her sorority and the business education club. Reflecting on that period, she recalls the deeply personal impact the Vietnam War had on her generation: “I lost a brother to the war,” she says. “Many of us lost loved ones, and we felt it was important to make our voices heard.”

“Montclair changed my life,” Fran adds. “I had a wonderful, 42-year career as a business teacher in Woodbridge Township, first at Woodbridge High School and then at John F. Kennedy Memorial High School.”��

Fran also notes that the courses she took in data processing at Montclair played a huge role in her success as a business educator. “I started teaching just as business education began shifting its focus from machines to computing,” she says.

Stephanie’s story differs a bit. Her priority at the time was sports. “I played club soccer in central NJ,” she explains. “There were a few players in the league who were already on Montclair’s Women’s Soccer team. They kept telling me how much they enjoyed playing at the collegiate level for Montclair and encouraged me to apply.”��

The Sabaliauskas family on campus (from L to R): Sam, Fran and Stephanie

“I honestly didn’t have any idea what I wanted to study, or even if I wanted to go to college, but I was offered a recruiting visit that turned out to be the deciding factor for me to attend ��Ʒ��˸�� University and play for an amazing coach and women’s soccer program,” Stephanie says.

Once college life took hold, she fully immersed herself in her studies. “I enjoyed my classes so much,” she says. “The professors opened my eyes to new worlds and made learning enjoyable.”

With growing confidence, Stephanie embraced the challenge of choosing a course of study. “I felt I could do anything,” she says. “I even tried a course in geology and thought about a career as a cruise director. Fortunately, I had wonderful advising and mentoring that guided me toward sports management and event planning.”

By the time she graduated, Stephanie was a five-time Dean’s List student and was one of 15 students selected as a Presidential Leader on Campus. She also made a name for herself as a member of the Women’s Soccer team.��

The sixth all-time leading scorer in Women’s Soccer program history as well as a Hall of Fame inductee in 2010, Stephanie played for Montclair from 2001-2004. She helped the Red Hawks to three straight New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) championship games. The 2003 NJAC Player of the Year, Stephanie was a three-time All-NJAC selection and finished her career with 95 points. At the end of her career, she finished third in goals scored with 41 and in her four seasons in a Montclair uniform, the Red Hawks posted a 50-24-11 mark. Stephanie’s achievements earned her the Dean of Students Leadership Award and membership in the National Student-Athlete Honor Society. In addition, she was an active member of Montclair’s Student-Athlete Advisory Club. In 2005, Stephanie was named Outstanding Female Student-Athlete by the College Athletic Administrators of New Jersey.

After completing her undergraduate degree in 2005, Stephanie began her career in corporate sponsorships and development for the New Jersey/New York MetroStars Major League Soccer team. Within a year, another opportunity arose and she was back at Montclair as the assistant director for Sports Information & Athletic Promotions as well as a volunteer assistant coach for the women’s soccer program. She built a successful career at Montclair, earning a master’s in the University’s Sports Administration program and rising to the role of Events and Promotions manager.��

In 2020, Stephanie became the University’s manager of Game Operations, a role that includes managing game day operations for all athletic contests; recruiting, training and supervising game day staff employees; managing contest contracts; and coordinating University Police, Facilities and Housekeeping for all athletic contests. She also is a member of the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS4).

For her part, Fran remains an involved alumna, attending Homecoming every year and volunteering for her class reunion committee.��

Even though the campus has changed dramatically over the last 50-plus years, both Fran and Stephanie emphasize that the Montclair community’s supportiveness is as strong as ever. “The staff was always welcoming and helpful,” Fran says. “If you were willing to work hard, they wouldn’t let you fail.”

Stephanie cannot agree more. “There was always someone who cared enough to push you forward,” she says. “We are a family!”

For Adam Derengowski ’19, Success Includes Mentoring the Next Generation of Film Students

bulana — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 19:02:39 +0000

There was little doubt that Adam Derengowski ’19 would pursue a career in filmmaking, his childhood love for Star Wars serving as an early clue. The bigger question was where he would study his art.��

“I applied to several schools and toured them all,” he says. “Montclair just felt right. I really liked the University’s location – I could visit New York City whenever I wanted without the hassle of living there.”

As a filmmaking major, Derengowski’s memories of campus life revolve around the projects he worked on. “That’s the bulk of what the film majors did,” he explains. “We would sit for hours in the new School of Communication and Media building coming up with ideas for new projects, drawing up plans and troubleshooting. It was a great experience.”

Derengowski points out how the film program’s design prepares students for success. “We all worked in different capacities on each other’s projects,” he says. “As a result, we graduated with knowledge about all of the various roles that contribute to a film. And my classes were great building blocks. I still refer to things I learned in my courses and feel very prepared for my current supervisory role.”��

His senior thesis film, with its Pac-Man theme, may have been another early indication of the direction his career would take. “It was my good fortune to be mentored by another Montclair alumnus, Michael Price ’81, as I developed this project,” he recalls. “Michael, whose credits include writing for The Simpsons, was very supportive and generous with his time and advice. The experience further prepared me for professional roles.”

Derengowski joined Atomic Cartoons right out of college, first as a production assistant and then as a production coordinator. Within three years Marvel Animation took notice of his abilities and brought him on as a production coordinator. In 2025, he was promoted to production supervisor. His most recent project was Eyes of Wakanda, an action-adventure series that was released on Disney+ in August.

“I was the editorial coordinator for Eyes of Wakanda,” he says. “It was a great learning experience and was excellent preparation for what came next.”

Of course, he can’t say too much about his current project, only that it is very exciting. “This time I am on the supervisory side of the editing function,” he says. “I’m the one planning and keeping everyone on track.”��

Until recently, West Coast assignments kept Derengowski far from Montclair. “I was able to return to New Jersey and in September I visited campus for the first time in about four years,” he says. “Now that I am in the area I was able to answer the call for mentors for the film program. I was assigned to a student and we talk regularly about the industry, her projects and her goals. I want to help jumpstart her success in any way I can.”

That includes encouraging her – and every student he meets – to take advantage of their time at Montclair to meet as many people as possible. “Say yes to every opportunity that comes your way, and don’t give up,” he advises.

“I am grateful for the opportunities Montclair provided for me and want to give back,” Derengowski adds. “I can do that by supporting the next generation of students.”��

Broadcasting Degree Takes Patrick Whittam ’93 From Multimedia Production to Corporate Communications

stewartj — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 16:50:45 +0000

Patrick Whittam ’93 did not anticipate a career in corporate communications; it was not even in his plan to study broadcasting. You might even say that his Montclair journey began at another college entirely. “I had enrolled in the elementary education program at a university in Philadelphia, but it wasn’t the best fit for me,” he says. “But while I was there, I got involved with a group reviving the on-campus radio station. That’s when I started thinking about switching my major to broadcasting.”

Whittam’s sister, at the time a dance major at Montclair, told him about the new broadcasting facilities being built at the University. He decided to come home to New Jersey to finish his college education. “I fell in love with television broadcasting,” he says.

He found additional inspiration – and gained valuable experience – through the University’s theater department. “I had an on-campus job as a stagehand at Memorial Auditorium working on Theatre Department shows as well as external productions. I made a lot of friends in the theater department and got involved with the student performance group Players. I even got to play a role in their production of Pippin.”

After graduation, Whittam launched a New Jersey-based multimedia production company. “We did a lot of corporate work and local cable broadcasts,” he says. “We also produced documentaries, including one about a ship that went down during World War II.”

Newly married with his first child on the way, Whittam took a role as a senior communications specialist, and later as manager of Internal Communications with the business unit then known as Prudential Investments. After a brief stint at JPMorgan Chase & Co., he rejoined Prudential’s captive distribution channel, then known as Agency Distribution, as a director of Internal Communications. Along the way, he earned a master’s degree in media studies from The New School, and in 2018, was named director of communications for Prudential’s International Businesses.

“I partner with the communications teams across our international markets to make sure they have the information they need to tell Prudential’s story in the markets,” Whittam explains, “and I make sure their unique stories are amplified throughout the rest of the Organization.”

More than ever, Whittam appreciates the universal skills his Montclair professors emphasized. “No matter what you do, relationship building, clear communication and project management are important,” he says. “When I started at Prudential, I ran a multimedia production team. Now that my role is client-facing, I am often required to communicate between the client and the production side. The skills I learned at Montclair, along with my production experience, have allowed me to be a more effective leader in this role.”

With a demanding career and a growing family, Whittam hadn’t considered becoming involved in alumni activities at Montclair – until he connected with Michele Ansbacher ’80, former corporate vice president at Prudential, who is the executive-in-residence at the Feliciano School of Business and current chair of its advisory board. The two have been instrumental in developing MSU + Pru, an alumni affinity group at the company.

“We have about 125 members, and we are working to connect with more,” Whittam says. “Since 2019 we have hosted an annual site visit for Montclair MBA and undergraduate students. For some, it is their first experience in a corporate setting. We organize a half day of activities including tours and presentations from Montclair alumni who work at Prudential.”

Planning for the site visits can sometimes start months in advance. Whittam helps coordinate with Montclair faculty teaching consulting classes to create fictional case studies based on Prudential for students to develop as part of the curriculum.

“The students meet with Prudential leaders a couple times over the course of the semester to ask questions and get feedback on their progress,” he says. “During their visit to Prudential, the teams present their findings to the alumni, leaders and faculty in attendance where they are asked some really challenging questions. Not only do they get real-world experience, they also get credit toward their degree.”

Whittam has since joined, and now chairs, the Feliciano School of Business’s MBA Advisory Board. His mission for MSU + Pru and the MBA Advisory Board is twofold: to increase Montclair graduates’ visibility within the corporation, and to help students appreciate the range of career opportunities available at Prudential.

“I have gotten more out of my alumni involvement at Montclair than I could ever have expected,” Whittam says. “There are so many wonderful opportunities to engage with students – and they are more impressive than you can imagine. In addition, I get to think about long term value of a Montclair MBA and how we can help influence the curriculum, as well as how alumni like me can use our corporate roles to spread the word about the program.”

“The side benefit is that I also enjoy networking through my involvement,” he continues. “Recently I met Oscar Munoz, retired chairman and CEO of United Airlines, who was part of the MBA program’s fall 2025 executive lecture series. It was an exciting opportunity that I would not have had otherwise.”

“I still have a lot of friends from my student days,” Whittam adds. “And now I am making new ones as an alumnus.”